Katie's Stool - Black Walnut and Black Cherry |
Joseph Thompson began woodworking in 2003 upon attending the Silva Bay Shipyard School on Gabriola Island in British Columbia. He then went on to study fine furniture building at the Center for Furniture Craftsmanship in Rockport, Maine. After completing his studies, he returned to his hometown of Orangeburg, SC and founded Joseph Thompson Woodworks. He has since attended workshops with the Arrowmont School of Arts and Crafts.
Katie Thompson grew up around her father's woodworking hobby, which helped create her strong passion for the arts at a young age. She graduated from the College of Charleston in Charleston, SC in 2009 with a B.A. in Communications. During her time in Charleston, she interned with the City of Charleston's Office of Cultural Affairs and the Piccolo Spoleto Festival, and also with Redux Contemporary Arts Center. She later went on to serve as the Assistant Manager for the nationally acclaimed Charleston Farmers Market. She also draws from her experiences in journalism, marketing and agriculture. She first joined Joseph in the studio in 2010 and then later as his wife in 2011.
Katie and Joseph Thompson |
Their passion is creating bespoke, heirloom quality furniture and home decor using traditional woodworking techniques and sustainably harvested fine hardwoods. They harvest their own materials and enjoy working with exotics as well as local domestics like South Carolina Walnut, Sunken Cypress, Cherry, Maple and Pear, which is light pink, silky smooth and beautiful to work with. It's inspiring to talk to them about the They take pride in their craftsmanship, original aesthetic and functionality.
Perch of Ebonized Poplar |
Their design inspirations come from a combination of Danish and Japanese influences, mixed with a touch of American mid-century modernism to create a transitional style all their own. They aim to honor timeless design with superior craftsmanship by creating beautiful furniture from the best that nature has to offer. Joseph's obsession with function and outstanding quality is a wonderful complement to Katie's contemporary aesthetic and postmodern inspirations. They work out of their studio in Orangeburg, SC among the woods that inspire them.
tools of the trade |
occasional table made with African Sapele, a new design to be debuted at High Point Market this Fall. |
They enjoy creating custom pieces of all types and styles for the home
or office. From wood species to custom measurements and everything
between, they are happy to design and create a piece truly built for
you.
Katie and Joseph would love to connect with you via twitter @ktkozar & @jwtwoodworks
and on Facebook www.facebook.com/josephthompsonwoodworks
Story and photos courtesy of Joseph Thompson Woodworks
Story and photos courtesy of Joseph Thompson Woodworks
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